With the puck set to drop on the 2026 Winter Olympics men’s hockey tournament, a handful of Vancouver Canucks are gearing up to make their mark on the international stage. Seven members of the organization are suiting up for their respective countries, and while not all will be in starring roles, several are poised to play key minutes in crucial spots - including on top lines and special teams.
Let’s break down how the Canucks’ Olympic representatives are expected to line up as the preliminary round begins.
Lukas Reichel: Top-Line Duty with Germany
Among the Canucks contingent, Lukas Reichel might be stepping into the most offensively potent role. He’s projected to skate on Germany’s top line alongside superstar Leon Draisaitl and veteran forward Dominik Kahun - a trio that should have no trouble generating scoring chances.
According to projections, Reichel is also expected to join Germany’s top power-play unit, flanked by Draisaitl, JJ Peterka, Tim Stützle, and Moritz Seider. That’s a serious collection of skill, and Reichel could be in for a breakout showing if he can take advantage of the space created by his high-profile linemates.
Filip Hronek: Power Play Quarterback for Czechia
Filip Hronek will be anchoring Czechia’s first-unit power play, a role that suits his game well. Known for his ability to move the puck and find seams from the blue line, Hronek will have the chance to drive offense for a Czech squad with plenty of firepower. His responsibilities on the man advantage will be significant - expect him to be a focal point when Czechia sets up in the offensive zone.
Teddy Blueger: Centering Latvia’s Second Line
Latvia will be leaning on Teddy Blueger to handle some heavy lifting up the middle. He’s projected to center the team’s second line between Rihards Bukarts and Rūdolfs Balcers, giving him a mix of speed and skill to work with.
Blueger is also expected to see time on Latvia’s second power-play unit, offering him a chance to contribute beyond his usual shutdown responsibilities. He’s a steady, two-way presence - the kind of player Latvia will need to stay competitive in a tough group.
Anri Ravinskis: On the Roster, But Not Expected to Dress
Also representing Latvia is Anri Ravinskis, though he’s not currently projected to be in the lineup when the team opens its tournament. While he may not see the ice right away, his presence on the roster gives Latvia some depth and flexibility as the games progress.
Kevin Lankinen: Backup Role for Finland
Between the pipes, Kevin Lankinen is the lone Canucks goaltender heading to the Olympics. For now, he’s expected to back up Juuse Saros, who will start Finland’s opening game against Slovakia. Unless Saros falters or the Finns decide to rotate their netminders, Lankinen may not see much action - but he remains a reliable option should his number be called.
Elias Pettersson: Third-Line Center and Penalty Killer for Sweden
Elias Pettersson’s role with Sweden might raise a few eyebrows. Rather than centering the top line or quarterbacking the power play, he’s projected to skate on the third line alongside Rickard Rakell and Mika Zibanejad.
That’s a trio with serious talent - and one that could be a matchup nightmare for opposing teams if Sweden rolls four deep. Pettersson is also expected to contribute on the penalty kill, showcasing his versatility and commitment to a full 200-foot game.
It’s a different look for a player known for his offensive flair, but it speaks to the depth of Sweden’s roster and the trust they have in Pettersson’s all-around ability.
Olympic Preliminary Round Schedule (All Times PT):
February 11
- Finland vs.
Slovakia - 7:40 AM
- Italy vs.
Sweden - 12:10 PM
February 12
- Canada vs.
Czechia - 7:40 AM
- USA vs.
Latvia - 12:10 PM
- Denmark vs.
Germany - 12:10 PM
February 13
- Sweden vs.
Finland - 3:10 AM
- Czechia vs.
France - 7:40 AM
February 14
- Slovakia vs.
Sweden - 3:10 AM
- Latvia vs.
Germany - 3:10 AM
- Italy vs.
Finland - 7:40 AM
February 15
- Czechia vs.
Switzerland - 3:10 AM
- Latvia vs.
Denmark - 10:10 AM
- Germany vs.
USA - 12:10 PM
As the tournament gets underway, the spotlight will be on how these Canucks handle their Olympic moments - whether it’s Reichel riding shotgun with Draisaitl, Hronek running the point, or Pettersson embracing a more defensively-minded role. For fans in Vancouver, it’s a chance to see their players tested on one of hockey’s biggest stages.